before it disappeared from public view it was well studied and it was confirmed that indeed it has been stitched (by very small hands) and it definitely had signs of wear

Found in 1835 by a farmer on a remote sheep trail on the Beara Peninsula, Ireland. It measures 27/8" long and 7/8" at its widest. Black, shows wear at the heel. The farmer gave the shoe to the local doctor, and eventually, it was passed to the Somerville family. It was reportedly examined by scientists at Harvard University and found to have tiny hand stitches, well-crafted eyelets, and appeared to be made of mouse skin.